Chris-Craft said today that it will reclaim one of the most famous names in its 142-year history when the all-new Commander 42 makes its debut at the builder’s 2016 dealer meeting in July.
Chris-Craft said the rapid to-market timing is possible because of a joint venture with the Italian yacht builder Austin Parker. Chris-Craft said it designed the interiors and specified the new Commander 42, working closely with Austin Parker as its design and manufacturing partner.
The Commander 42 marks Chris-Craft’s first step into the cabin cruiser market through a range of New England lobster-style open boats that dovetail perfectly with the builder’s classic design philosophy, according to the company.
With a modern interpretation on a historical lobster boat line, the Commander 42 will embrace the brand’s timeless heritage and signature design, according to the company.
“Chris-Craft has always sought to be differentiated, and we believe that the new Commander line is a perfect addition to our product line,” chairman Stephen Julius said in a statement.
The Commander 42 has a distinctive hull design and will be powered with twin Volvo IPS 600 D6 435-HP engines. It has two cockpit areas for entertainment (one open aft, and one under a hardtop which can be fully enclosed with sliding doors); a large sunbed on the bow; a cockpit galley; sleeping below for five people; a head and separate shower; teak floors in the cockpit; wooden decks below deck; beautiful upholstery; and classic Chris-Craft design details throughout.
After the Commander 42 is introduced in July, the boat will be showcased at major shows and events across the world, beginning with the Cannes Yachting Festival in France and the Newport International Boat Show in Rhode Island in September.
Chris-Craft will launch a Commander 36 and Commander 52 in 2017, bringing the Chris-Craft Commander range of open boats to three models that will be sold exclusively on a global basis under the Chris-Craft name.
Austin Parker will continue to build and market a range of flybridge boats in 54-, 64- and 74-foot lengths under the Austin Parker name.
